Is Polyurethane Food Safe?
Because it resists mineral, vegetable oils and aromatic hydrocarbons, polyurethane is an ideal option for applications in food grade materials. This substance is non-toxic, allergen-free, and non-marking, and it complies with FDA requirements and NSF standards for food contact applications, including production of all food processing equipment and systems. Therefore, experts call polyurethane food-safe generally.
The food safety issue revolves around the metal driers used to ensure rapid curing of oils and varnishes in any finish, including polyurethane. In the past, several such driers, such as lead, have been proven toxic and banned from use. But there is no proof that modern driers used in finishes, including polyurethane, are not risky when cured. There has never been a case of poisoning from such driers. That’s why there is even no need for warnings on cans or MDSS (Material Data Safety Sheets), because the FDA has approved the use of these driers in polyurethane and many other finishes.
Is Polyurethane FDA Approved?
If you’re interested in using PU, you should know that it has a long list of benefits. This material is incredibly versatile and safe. In fact, it’s the preferred material for many medical devices. But, the question that lingers in the back of your mind is: is it FDA approved?
Yes, it is FDA approved. Actually, for food-grade use of polyurethane, the FDA has set some guidelines. The manufacturers must have to follow those during production of polyurethane for food-grade applications or when using PU in those food-grade materials.
Generally, FDA approved polyurethane has a blue color, making it more visible to optical inspection. While “natural” colored polyurethane is not completely food-safe, it is more recognizable as a product. Also, unlike “natural” colored polyurethane, it won’t discolor or lose its shape in cold temperatures.
Polyurethane on Kitchen Cutting Boards
While the question of whether or not polyurethane is safe to use on cutting boards and other wooden surfaces is frequently asked, the answer to that question is not yet certain. Polyurethane, a type of varnish, is generally considered food-safe when properly cured. Depending on its type, polyurethane may not be safe for contact with food until it has dried to the touch. Read the label and be sure to follow all instructions before you start applying it.
Generally, polyurethane is safe to use on most surfaces in the kitchen, including cutting boards, but you shouldn’t cut any vegetable, meet or other food item directly on a polyurethaned board, especially with a sharp object. The surface of the board can be damaged if you use anything sharp, exposing the risk of mixing the substance with food. You should moreover be aware of children and pets near uncured polyurethane.
Polyurethane on Kitchen Countertops
Yes, you can. But, make sure you’re using the waterborne versions – the safest among polyurethanes. Waterborne or oil- based, each has distinct properties, and understanding them will help you choose a product. However, avoid using oil-based formulations on kitchen countertops, as they contain a higher toxicity profile than water-based counterparts, and requires careful handling away from flame-causing agents. Additionally, oil-based polyurethane can produce toxic fumes for several weeks after application, so you will need to keep an eye on the curing process.
Do not bring any food or vegetable in contact with the polyurethaned countertop until fully cured. PU needs at least six to eighty degrees Fahrenheit to fully curing. 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for perfection in curing. If you are concerned about polyurethane’s ability to retain heat, be sure to check with the manufacturer about the product’s health and safety rating.
Wood countertops are exposed to moisture and water. To protect them from moisture damage and prevent food poisoning, the best finish for wood countertops is one that is food-safe. Almost all leading manufacturers sell food-safe polyurethane for countertops. If you aren’t sure what is best for your countertop, try this guide.
Polyurethane in Home Applications
When it comes to polyurethane home applications, when properly cured, polyurethane is non-toxic and safe for food contact. Although some polyurethane products take longer to cure, they are safe to use when fully cured. If you are concerned about delay in curing, use food-safe and quick-drying polyurethane that cures in about two hours. And of course, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully.
Last Words
The food industry uses polyurethane components for a variety of industrial applications. Its high abrasion resistance and anti-stick properties make it a great choice for wear components that come into contact with food. It’s also used in conveyor guides, belt scrapers, chute liners, bumpers, and seals. Food compliance is important to both your business and your customers’ health. If your product is intended to be dry, it should be free of any free surface fats.
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